Grand Opening of the Tenth Amritsar Literature Festival: A Tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh and Punjabi Heritage

Saptrishi Soni: The Tenth Amritsar Literature Festival commenced with grandeur and intellectual vigor at the Khalsa College for Women in Amritsar, organized by Naad Pragas Sri Amritsar. The festival, dedicated to celebrating literature, culture, and intellectual discourse, opened with a heartfelt tribute to Padma Shri Surjit Patar, a distinguished Punjabi poet. The college principal, Dr. Surinder Kaur, delivered a warm welcome address, setting a gracious tone for the inaugural event. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as scholars, poets, students, and dignitaries gathered to participate in this prestigious festival, which promises to offer deep insights into literature, social philosophies, and contemporary cultural narratives.

The keynote lecture was delivered by noted Punjabi thinker Amarjit Garewal, who presented a thought-provoking analysis of the current socio-political landscape of Punjab. Garewal expressed his concern over the theatrical nature of actions by individuals in Punjab, suggesting that these behaviors do not align with the innate emotional and spiritual character of the Punjabi community. He stressed that Punjab’s situation cannot merely be improved but requires a comprehensive reorganization to restore its true essence. His candid observations resonated with the audience, shedding light on the need for introspection and reform within Punjab’s societal framework.

Among the distinguished guests was Swarnjeet Savi, Chairman of the Punjab Arts Council in Chandigarh and a renowned Punjabi poet. He contributed to the discourse by highlighting the critical role of literature and the arts in reflecting and shaping societal values. His presence underscored the festival’s emphasis on blending artistic expression with intellectual debate. Dr. Mahil Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Khalsa College University, added to the conversation by addressing the erosion of self-confidence among Punjabis. He advocated for open dialogue as a vital tool in navigating the complex challenges faced by society today, emphasizing that constructive communication could lead to meaningful solutions and the revival of cultural pride.

A key highlight of the festival was a seminar dedicated to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, focusing on “Socialism and Capitalism in the Indian Context.” Dr. Manmohan Singh’s monumental contributions to India’s economic policies were honored through the release of a detailed research booklet showcasing his role in shaping the nation’s economic framework. Renowned political analyst Yogendra Yadav captivated the audience with his insights into India’s socialist traditions. He expressed optimism about the future of socialism, advocating for the development of a new lexicon of equality and justice that, while not overtly socialist in appearance, could achieve similar goals. Yadav’s perspective underscored the evolving nature of political ideologies and their adaptation to contemporary needs.

Jawaharlal Nehru University’s Somyavrat Chaudhary added depth to the discussion by exploring the intersections of education, capital, and Ambedkarite thought. He argued that the ultimate goal of capital should not merely be market-driven but should serve the cause of justice. By articulating that socialist principles can thrive within capitalist frameworks, Chaudhary provided a nuanced understanding of how economic systems could be reoriented to promote social equity. His assertion that capital influences and often obscures social relations added a critical layer to the dialogue, emphasizing the persistent relevance of class structures in both affluent and impoverished societies.

The seminar also featured insights from Dr. Satish Verma, who shared personal experiences with Dr. Manmohan Singh, highlighting the former Prime Minister’s integrity and vision. Special guest Dr. Jaspal Singh, a professor at Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar, provided a balanced perspective by discussing the positive impacts of capitalism, particularly its role in fostering innovation and economic growth. The dialogue between socialism and capitalism at the festival offered a well-rounded view of India’s socio-economic landscape, encouraging participants to think critically about the nation’s developmental path.

The festival’s third session engaged students from prestigious institutions such as Amity University Noida, Punjabi University Patiala, Delhi University, and Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, in a lively discussion on “Academic Research and Indian Intellectual Traditions.” Presiding over this session, Professor Madhulika Banerjee from Delhi University addressed the marginalization of Indian knowledge systems within modern academia. She attributed this phenomenon to lingering colonial mindsets and economic constraints. Using Ayurveda as an example, she illustrated how traditional Indian sciences have been undervalued despite their holistic approach to health and well-being. Her insights called for a reassessment of academic curricula to better integrate indigenous knowledge and celebrate India’s rich intellectual heritage.

Dr. Harpreet Kaur Jass from Jamia Millia Islamia emphasized the significance of the Guru-Shishya (Teacher-Disciple) tradition in Indian education. She advocated for incorporating experiential learning methodologies that honor this ancient tradition. Dr. Jass highlighted how personal experiences and the transmission of wisdom through mentorship play a critical role in education, suggesting that this approach could enrich modern pedagogical practices and create a more profound learning experience for students.

Adding to the festival’s scholarly contributions, three books were unveiled during the event: “Guru Nanak Dev da Kudrat Siddhant” by Prof. Harpal Singh Pannu, “Ambrosial Dawn” by Prof. Puran Singh, and “Vismaad,” a poetry collection by Paramjit Sohal. These literary works promise to contribute significantly to Punjabi literature and intellectual thought, reflecting the festival’s objective of promoting literary excellence and cultural awareness.

The event was seamlessly managed by a dedicated team, including Harkamalpreet Singh, Jaswinder, and Dr. Praveen Kumar, who ensured that the sessions proceeded smoothly and maintained a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. The Tenth Amritsar Literature Festival not only celebrated literary and artistic achievements but also provided a platform for critical discussions on contemporary issues. By honoring figures like Dr. Manmohan Singh and fostering debates on socialism, capitalism, and academic traditions, the festival underscored its role as a catalyst for cultural and intellectual growth.

The festival’s opening day set a high benchmark for the remaining sessions, leaving the audience with a sense of anticipation for the rich dialogues and artistic expressions yet to come. The amalgamation of thought leadership, literary showcases, and academic discourse highlighted the festival’s holistic approach to celebrating Punjab’s cultural heritage and addressing broader societal themes. The Tenth Amritsar Literature Festival, through its diverse sessions and esteemed participants, reaffirmed the enduring power of literature and dialogue in shaping a more informed and just society.

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